kyiv and London conclude “historic” 100-year security partnership

The two countries will strengthen their cooperation in defense, but also scientific matters.

President Volodymyr Zelensky and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whose country is a key supporter of Ukraine in the face of the Russian invasion, signed an agreement on Thursday (January 16). “historical” on a partnership “over 100 years” between kyiv and London. “We signed together a historic agreement (…) which reflects the enormous affection existing between our two nations”the head of the British government told the media after the signing in kyiv.

The document provides for a strengthening of cooperation in defense and maritime security, but also “scientific and technological partnerships” in health, agro-technology, space and drones, according to the text published by kyiv.

President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed relations “narrower than ever” between London and kyiv, as explosions were heard in the center of kyiv, and a drone flew over the government district.

Keir Starmer, the Labor leader, was in Ukraine for the first time since his election in July and a few days before Donald Trump’s return to the White House. Ukraine, whose army is exhausted and retreating on the front after nearly three years of Russian invasion, and its European allies fear possible American disengagement.